Governance (Transparency & Accountability)
Transparency enables accountability: Transparency refers to the openness of processes, actions, and decisions. When information is readily available and accessible to stakeholders, it becomes easier to hold individuals and institutions accountable for their actions. Transparency allows for scrutiny and oversight on the action or inaction of power holders. It is about justifying their actions or inaction.
Accountability relies on transparency: Accountability is the obligation of individuals and institutions to answer for their actions, accept responsibility, and be liable for the consequences. Without transparency, it is difficult, if not impossible, to hold anyone accountable. If actions are shrouded in secrecy or information is intentionally withheld, there is no basis for assessing performance or determining responsibility.
Building the capacity of traditional leaders in demanding transparency and accountability in rural setups, especially on public funds, is crucial for promoting good governance and development. Here are some strategies we have been using:
Training and Education: Provide traditional leaders with training on governance, financial management, and advocacy skills to enable them to effectively demand transparency and accountability.
Community Engagement: Encourage traditional leaders to engage with their communities, listen to their concerns, and educate them on their rights and responsibilities regarding public funds.
Access to Information: Ensure traditional leaders have access to relevant information about public funds, including budget allocations, expenditure reports, and audit findings.
Networking and Collaboration: Facilitate collaboration among traditional leaders, local government officials, and civil society organizations to share knowledge, resources, and best practices.
Supportive Policy Framework: Advocate for policies and laws that empower traditional leaders to demand transparency and accountability, such as the Access to Information law
Mentorship and Coaching: Pair traditional leaders with experienced mentors who can guide and support them in their advocacy efforts.
Technology and Digital Tools: Leverage technology, such as mobile apps and online platforms, to enhance traditional leaders’ access to information, communication, and advocacy.
Community-Led Monitoring: Support traditional leaders in establishing community-led monitoring initiatives to track public fund usage and report irregularities.
Strengthening Traditional
Leadership Institutions: Strengthen traditional leadership institutions, such as councils and assemblies, to enhance their capacity to demand transparency and accountability.
We are implementing these strategies; traditional leaders in rural Zambia can become effective champions of transparency and accountability, promoting better governance and development in their communities.
Building Cultural Accountability Mechanism project being implemented in Mukuni and Musokotwane Chiefdoms is a program with financial support of the Federal Republic of Germany and co-funded by the European Union under the enabling access to Justice, Civil Society Participation and Transparency Programme.